ABSTRACT
Evaluation of the upper airway in pediatric patients is crucial to understanding the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the unified pediatric airway. This chapter describes commonly employed techniques to evaluate the upper airway in children for diagnostic purposes: diagnostic drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) and upper airway flexible bronchoscopy. Fiber-optic intubation via the transnasal approach and via a supraglottic airway device are also described, as are common complications and tips for clinical practice. Upper airway evaluation via drug-induced sleep endoscopy is an essential component of comprehensive pediatric airway evaluation. The pediatric bronchoscopist should also be skilled in emergency airway techniques, such as fiber-optic intubation.
